VehicleVerdict

2018 Chevrolet Malibu transmission problems

The 2018 Chevrolet Malibu has 169 transmission complaints filed with NHTSA — 14% of the year's total, and roughly flat versus the prior model year.

169

Transmission complaints

14%

Share of year

3

Crash-involved

1

Related recalls

Transmission complaints by year

Related recalls

20V668000TransmissionOctober 29, 2020 · 194,105 units

Defect

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Cruze and Buick LaCrosse, 2018-2020 Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Terrain, 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, 2019-2020 Buick Encore, Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT4, Chevrolet Blazer and GMC Acadia, and 2020 Cadillac XT6 vehicles. The start/stop accumulator endcap may have missing bolts.

Consequence

Missing bolts on the start-stop accumulator endcap could result in a transmission oil leak and may progress to a loss of propulsion, increasing the risk of a crash. A transmission fluid leak in the presence of an ignition source may increase the risk of fire.

Remedy

GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the start-stop transmission accumulator and replace it if any bolts are missing, free of charge. The recall began December 15, 2020. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Buick Customer service at 1-866-608-8080, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N202313440.

What owners report

The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated and flashing. While in the park position, the shift to park message was displayed. The vehicle was slow to move. While adding fuel to the tank, the fuel would bubble at the top and stop.…

Complaint filed with NHTSA · Transmission · January 1, 2022 · crash

Common questions

How many transmission complaints does the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu have?

NHTSA has 169 complaints about the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu transmission — 14% of all complaints filed for that model year.

Are there recalls for the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu transmission?

Yes — 1 NHTSA recall campaign for this model year is tied to the transmission: 20V668000.

Related

Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.

Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.